Lori Kay Lukow

LORI KAY LUKOW, age 64 of Pemberton, passed away Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Whispering Creek Nursing home in Janesville, surrounded by loved ones. She was joyously reunited with her mother, Joyce Lukow, and there is no doubt the first thing they shared after a warm embrace was a home cooked meal.

Born on November 11, 1960, in Iowa City, Iowa, a daughter of Vance and Joyce (Koelder) Lukow. She graduated from Waldorf-Pemberton High School – Class of 1979. One of Lori’s most important roles in life was her role as an aunt. Aunt Lori welcomed her nieces and nephews with open arms in her famous papasan chair. Aunt Lori was the beanie bear supplier, collectible curator, nail painter, M&M connoisseur, oyster cracker maker and expert on all things fudge. She knew the season’s best toys before JC Penny or Herberger’s could figure it out. She was the quintessential, cool aunt all kids dream of.

She was a sister, family historian, loyal daughter and friend. Though we are heartbroken, we know this will only be temporary. Until then, we can only imagine Lori sitting on a much more comfortable recliner, perhaps watching the Minnesota Twins or Food Network, indulging in Pepsi and potato chips, and helping her mother plan the greatest meal for when we are all together again.

She is survived by her father, Vance Lukow; siblings, Tom Lukow of Pemberton, Marilee (Randy) Bluhm of Minnesota Lake, Craig (Jackie) Lukow of Paynesville, Kim (Todd) Sonnek of Shevlin; eight nieces and nephews; 16 great-nieces and nephews, as well as several extended relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her mother, paternal and maternal grandparents, Uncle Rodney and Aunt Norma.

In honoring Lori’s wishes, private family services will be held at a later date.